The mission of the Division of Environment (DOE) is the protection of the public health and environment. The Division
conducts regulatory programs involving public water supplies, industrial discharges, wastewater treatment
systems, solid waste landfills, hazardous waste, air emissions, radioactive materials, asbestos removal,
refined petroleum storage tanks, and other sources which impact the environment. In addition, the
Division administers other programs to remediate contamination, lessen nonpoint pollution, and evaluate
environmental conditions across the state.

The DOE works vigorously with operators to achieve compliance with state and
federal environmental statutes and regulations. The regulatory programs rely upon compliance inspections
and monitoring to determine compliance. The Division also conducts financial or technical assistance
programs such as the Wastewater Revolving Loan Fund and the Pollution Prevention Program to assist the
regulated community.

Operators often correct compliance problems quickly and effectively; however, there are some instances
in which the Division must issue administrative orders and fines. The agency's appeals section handles
administrative appeals. Some cases are eventually resolved in state or federal district court.

DOE works to reduce pollution by increasing access to the Division's programs, strengthening the
district offices, and providing information to the regulated community and the public at large. Notable
examples are the annual state pollution prevention conference, responses to requests for information
related to property transfers, and increased training for members of the regulated community.